Carfax Releases Android App

As annoying and incessant as those Carfax commercials are, if there's one service they provide, it's in reminding you that you should do your research before putting that down payment toward a used car. And what easier way to do that than with a mobile app you can load up on the dealership floor? You don't even have to ask the dumbfounded yet deceitful dealer to "show you the Carfax."

Carfax released an app for iPhone users last year, and this week it's released the Android version. The app gives users on-the-spot access to Carfax Vehicle History Reports. All you have to do to access the report is enter information that's readily available at the dealer. You can enter the VIN or license plate number or scan the barcode to bring up the report.

Of course, while the app is free, you'll still need to pay for a Carfax consumer account. Carfax's website lists the cost of one report at $35 and the cost of an unlimited reports (for 30 days) account at $50.

"Consumers love the ease and convenience of mobile apps," Larry Gamache, communications director at Carfax, said in a press release. "Now, vital information from Carfax about a car's past is available to Android smartphone users anytime, anywhere. In addition, the license plate feature is especially useful when considering cars that are for sale by owner."

So, assuming you have an Android phone and use Carfax during your shopping process, car buying just got a little easier. Download the app and get more information at Google Play.